SP3.11 - Beyond the microscope – Unravelling the Significance of Colorectal Cancer Histopathology Request Forms

Abstract Accurate histopathology reporting of colorectal cancer resected specimens (CCRS) is crucial for optimal patient care. The adequacy of clinical information provided by surgeons influences the quality of documentation. This audit aims to identify if histopathology request forms for CCRS in our trust meets national standards, as published by The Royal College of Pathologists. A retrospective study encompassing 40 consecutive histopathology request forms following colorectal cancer resections was conducted over 4 months (June to September 2023), where we assessed local adherence to national guidelines. The guidelines address a range of information from the surgical details to the patient’s medical background. Among the 40 request forms, 87.5% (35) were completed by consultants and 12.5% (5) by registrars. The information predominantly included were details on tumour site (98%) and nature of the resection (98%). Details on surgical procedure through a diagram and method of approach, were provided in 45% (18) and 48% (19) of the forms. Conversely, details on the pre-operative stage of tumour and types of therapy given was discerned in less than 25% of the forms. Only 3% (1) included information regarding presence of iatrogenic specimen defect and if specimen included other tissues or organ. Alarmingly, none addressed patient hereditary conditions or presence inflammatory bowel disease. The current histopathology request forms for CCRS lack information to facilitate comprehensive histopathological analysis. Addressing this necessitates raising awareness on national guidelines available. Additionally, a new structured form has been implemented in our trust, with the aim of encouraging surgeons to provide more comprehensive information.